Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Teens
Understanding ACT
What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Teens?
Acceptance and commitment therapy for teenagers is based on the idea that thoughts and feelings don’t have to control your behavior. Instead, teens can choose how to act, even if their thoughts and emotions are uncomfortable. This is different from cognitive behavioral therapy which focuses on recognizing negative thoughts and changing them. This kind of therapy can be a part of troubled teenager programs.
ACT Benefits
Benefits of ACT for Teens
Principles of Teen ACT
6 Core Principles of Teen Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
ACCEPTANCE
This principle involves helping teens learn to accept the things they cannot change and rather look to things they can control.
COGNITIVE DEFUSION
This principle helps teens learn to disassociate themselves from their thoughts. It helps them understand that thoughts are just thoughts and not facts.
BEING PRESENT
This principle involves learning mindfulness techniques to help your teen focus on the present rather than worry about the future.
THE OBSERVING SELF
This principle helps teens develop a more objective perspective of their thoughts and emotions, rather than judging them as good or bad.
VALUES
This principle helps your teen identify what is important to them and what they want to stand for in life. Then they can start making choices that align with these things.
COMMITTED ACTION
This principle helps your teen take action towards their goals. It involves setting plans and taking small steps to make progress.
Teen ACT by Key Healthcare
Teen Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in Los Angeles, CA
Key Healthcare provides ACT for teenagers as a part of our teen treatment programs. Teens will participate in individual and teen group therapy sessions that utilize ACT to treat their mental health condition(s). In addition to our intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs, we also offer a comprehensive residential treatment program for teens. To learn more about our extended care programs, contact us today.